- Survey reveals the top 120 'hidden gem' dog parks across the country.
- Paw Place at Northeast Park, Clearwater; Logan Gate Dog Park, Tampa + Lake Baldwin Dog Park, Orlando included.
- Infographic showing the top 120 off-the-radar dog parks in America.
America's landscape is dotted with well-celebrated dog parks, yet beyond these well-trodden paths lie hidden gems in urban spaces, often only known to locals. Based on a survey of 3,000 dog owners across the country, Technobark.com unleashed a ranking of the top 120 ‘Hidden Gem Dog Parks’. Their goal was to highlight the unsung sanctuaries for pets and their owners, showcasing their unique features and the joy they bring to get tails wagging.
The top 10 were as follows:
#1 Prospect Dog Park, New York
At the top of the pack, Prospect Dog Park in Brooklyn's Prospect Park isn't just another walk in the park. Canines can frolic in the sand and doggy paddle to their heart's content at Dog Beach. Complete with the necessities and a laid-back vibe, it's a slice of doggy paradise.
#2 Hartwood Acres Dog Park, Pennsylvania
Hartwood Acres Dog Park in Pittsburgh is where the trees are a backdrop to an adventure playground for pooches of all sizes. With its wooded wonderland and open meadows, it’s not just a walk, it’s an exploration.
#3 Moanalua Dog Park, Hawaii
Over in Honolulu, the Moanalua Dog Park is where four-legged friends can let loose with a mountain view. It’s an agility playground that’s always up to snuff in terms of maintenance and fun.
#4 Shelby Farms Dog Park, Tennessee
Shelby Farms Dog Park in Memphis offers more than just a romp in the park; it's a river retreat where water-loving pups can make a splash.
#5 Puptown Dog Park, Illinois
Chicago's Puptown Dog Park is where the local canine community comes together. Managed by a crew of dedicated volunteers, it’s a fenced haven in the Uptown area.
#6 Bear Creek Dog Park, Colorado
The sprawling Bear Creek Dog Park in Colorado Springs offers an off-leash expanse that's a wonderland for dogs with an adventurous streak and those of the more genteel persuasion.
#7 Shirlington Dog Park, Virginia
Shirlington Dog Park in Arlington is a bustling social hub where every dog can find its play. The setting? Grassy, shady, and oh-so-welcoming.
#8 Marymoor Off-Leash Dog Park, Washington
Washington's Marymoor Off-Leash Dog Park in Redmond is a treasure trove of landscapes, offering a mix of open fields and woodsy escapades, with a river that's just begging for a swim.
#9 Shawnee Park, Arizona
In ninth place, Shawnee Park in Chandler is where community vibes meet impeccable care. It's a variety of different play zones that cater to every dog’s playtime wishlist.
#10 Quiet Waters Park Dog Beach, Maryland
And rounding out the top ten, Quiet Waters Park Dog Beach is a designated off-leash area which allows dogs to splash and play in the calm waters of Chesapeake Bay.
Florida had 3 parks identified among the top hidden gems for dogs:
#38 Paw Place at Northeast Park, Clearwater.
A hidden gem in the Brookside neighborhood of Largo, this park offers off-leash freedom for dogs in two separate fenced sections for large and small breeds. The park features large shade trees, pea pebble gravel surfaces, agility equipment for larger dogs, waste bags, trash receptacles, and doggy drinking water. It's a great space for a game of fetch or just letting your dog run freely.
#47 Logan Gate Dog Park, Tampa.
Located in the suburbs of Tampa, this park provides two separate areas for large and small dogs. Amenities include a hitching post, doggie mitt bins, water fountains for dogs and owners, and shelters. It's an ideal location for pet owners looking for a safe and clean environment for their dogs to socialize and exercise.
#52 Lake Baldwin Dog Park, Orlando.
Nestled next to Lake Baldwin, this expansive 23-acre park is dog-friendly, allowing dogs to roam off-leash. It features a sandy beach, plenty of shade, benches, a boat ramp, picnic tables, restrooms, and pavilions, making it a perfect spot for dogs to play and swim.
Infographic ranking of the top 120 hidden gem dog parks in America
“Each park to make our ranking is a paw-printed pathway to delight and discovery," says Gary Nealon of Technobark.com. "The best treasures are often found off the beaten path, so we hope our study helps dog owners to sniff out new adventures and create unforgettable memories with their furry friends.”